Can music participation prevent cognitive decline?
A philanthropic gift has enabled psychologists, bioengineers, musicians, imaging experts and neurologists to collaborate on a groundbreaking research program.
Dementia affects around 50 million people globally, a number that is tipped to triple in the next 30 years. Researchers are tackling the issue on all fronts, with investigations ranging from genetics to lifestyle risks and treatments. With no cure yet, one key question focuses on prevention: Can we slow the rate of cognitive decline to avoid dementia?
The Spencer Bennett Neuromusic Collaborative aims to find out.
Enabled by a generous philanthropic gift, this three-year program will test whether music training workshops are a feasible cognitive training intervention for people experiencing mild cognitive decline – the stage before dementia develops.
Through an intensive music training course, imaging studies, and neurological and psychological testing, the program will provide evidence for what happens next in this space: a new field of research, broader studies, and music training programs for cognitive intervention within community settings.
